Navigating Communication in Nursing Homes During COVID-19: Perspectives From Families, Healthcare Professionals, and Managers in Southern Switzerland-A Qualitative Study.

Abstract

Objectives: This study aims to understand the effectiveness and challenges of communication strategies implemented to maintain contact between nursing home (NH) residents and their families during the COVID-19 pandemic, by considering the perspectives of families, healthcare professionals, and NH managers.

Methods: Using a qualitative research design, the study analyzed in-depth semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders (N = 34), including family members, NH staff, and managers.

Results: The study found that communication strategies like video calls, telephone calls, and window visits were generally appreciated and facilitated contact between residents and their families. However, challenges emerged around technical and organizational issues. Both internal and external stakeholders concurred that an increase in technological and human resources was necessary to alleviate these challenges.

Conclusion: The study underscores the importance of innovative and flexible communication strategies to sustain connections between NH residents and their families in crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic. Future readiness calls for increased investment in human and technical resources, and a commitment to understanding and addressing the diverse communication needs of NH residents.